Your Guide to the Can’t-Miss Holiday Happenings in Ruidoso

Ruidoso is an incredible place year-round, but there’s something extra special about the village during the holiday season. From holiday parades and Christmas shows to winter sleigh rides and spectacular light shows, there’s something for everyone.

Light shows, holiday parades, and winter sleigh rides. Discover how Ruidoso shines at holiday time.

Light shows, holiday parades, and winter sleigh rides. Discover how Ruidoso shines at holiday time.

Featured
A Christmas Affair at Ruidoso Convention Center
Nov 1
A Christmas Affair at Ruidoso Convention Center

Shop from a selection of artisan makers and small businesses at A Christmas Affair, November 1- 2, 2025, at the Ruidoso Convention Center. Discover unique, handcrafted gifts and décor from talented local artists. Enjoy delicious treats, live entertainment, and family-friendly fun—all in a magical holiday atmosphere! 

Ruidoso Christmas Jubilee at the Ruidoso Convention Center
Nov 14
Ruidoso Christmas Jubilee at the Ruidoso Convention Center

Embrace the season and join the Ruidoso Valley Greeters for a timeless and treasured tradition, the Christmas Jubilee, at the Ruidoso Convention Center. Admission is only $5.00 and active military members are free. Learn more at RuidosoChristmasJubilee.com

Opening Weekend: Christmas at the Flying J Ranch (Seasonal, Select Dates Only)
Nov 28
Opening Weekend: Christmas at the Flying J Ranch (Seasonal, Select Dates Only)

Celebrate Christmas at the Flying J Ranch with special White Mountain Christmas winter performances from late November to the end of December 2025. BUY TICKETS!

Christmas Tree Lighting at Inn of the Mountain Gods
Nov 30
Christmas Tree Lighting at Inn of the Mountain Gods

Celebrate the start of the holiday season during this free, family event at Inn of the Mountain Gods. Get a few holiday surprises from our Barnes & Noble® pop-up gift shop before snapping a few pictures of your kids with Santa. Treat yourself to complimentary cookies and hot cocoa while the choir sings your favorite holiday hits. Then, get ready to welcome the holiday season as they light up the Christmas tree! Minors must be accompanied by an adult.

Christmas In The Park
Dec 4
Christmas In The Park

Celebrate the magic of the season at Christmas in the Park! Festivities begin at 5:30 p.m. with music, ice skating, and holiday fun. Santa and Mrs. Claus arrive with Mayor Crawford for the tree lighting around 6 p.m., followed by sleigh rides, photos with Santa, and a chance for kids to receive a free toy from Ruidoso Parks & Recreation.

The Nutcracker at Spencer Theater
Dec 20
The Nutcracker at Spencer Theater

STARRING THE RUIDOSO ACADEMY OF BALLET AND DANCE. A cast of 70 outstanding dancers will transform Tchaikovsky's world-famous musical score into a brilliant visual dreamscape with spectacular sets & costumes that bring battling mice, toy soldiers & dazzling Snowflake Fairies to life! This opulent coming-of-age journey is a timeless Christmas gift for the entire family! Saturday, December 20 at 2 pm & 7 pm; Sunday, December, 21 at 2 pm. • $42 BUY TICKETS

The Nutcracker at Spencer Theater
Dec 20
The Nutcracker at Spencer Theater

STARRING THE RUIDOSO ACADEMY OF BALLET AND DANCE. A cast of 70 outstanding dancers will transform Tchaikovsky's world-famous musical score into a brilliant visual dreamscape with spectacular sets & costumes that bring battling mice, toy soldiers & dazzling Snowflake Fairies to life! This opulent coming-of-age journey is a timeless Christmas gift for the entire family! Saturday, December 20 at 2 pm & 7 pm; Sunday, December, 21 at 2 pm. • $42 BUY TICKETS

The Nutcracker at Spencer Theater
Dec 21
The Nutcracker at Spencer Theater

STARRING THE RUIDOSO ACADEMY OF BALLET AND DANCE. A cast of 70 outstanding dancers will transform Tchaikovsky's world-famous musical score into a brilliant visual dreamscape with spectacular sets & costumes that bring battling mice, toy soldiers & dazzling Snowflake Fairies to life! This opulent coming-of-age journey is a timeless Christmas gift for the entire family! Saturday, December 20 at 2 pm & 7 pm; Sunday, December, 21 at 2 pm. • $42 BUY TICKETS

Things to do in Ruidoso, Winter, Entertainment experiences, Attractions & ActivitiesEditorsholiday activities, Holiday events, winter